Abstract: A scarfing torch adapted for manual manipulation which includes means disposed in said torch to provide a component of force upon the torch to offset forces upon the torch generated either by the flow of oxygen gas used in the scarfing process or gravity. The offsetting force is provided by the release of a secondary fluid from the torch in the appropriate direction. The secondary fluid may be released to impinge upon the surface of the workpiece being scarfed.

Abstract: A method of and apparatus for cutting and handling filaments which controls the vertical, lateral and axial movement of the filament during and after cutting to maintain filament in alignment while removing cut filament from the path of incoming filament. In accordance with the present invention filament is fed into an annular chamber formed by a rotary drum and an annular shroud in the direction of its longitudinal axis, and cut into lengths with a knife mounted on the forward end of the rotary drum as the knife is rotated through the incoming filament. During and after cutting, erratic vertical, axial and lateral movement of cut filament is confined by the walls of the chamber, by an adjustable stop within the chamber downstream of the knife positioned at the desired filament length, and by picking means mounted on the length of the drum within the chamber which closely follow the knife and contact the filament immediately after it has been cut.